Aiken City Advances Downtown Revitalization Plans

News Summary

Aiken City has approved a $10 million mixed-use development project aimed at revitalizing its downtown area. Located near the Aiken County Farmer’s Market, the project will transform the long-vacant Jackson Petroleum site into a vibrant community hub with modern apartments and spaces for small businesses. As plans progress, city officials are in talks with CH2 Holdings for potential development, targeting a construction start within the next three years. Aiken is committed to balancing new growth with the needs of existing residents, ensuring a thriving downtown for all.

Aiken City Takes Big Steps Towards Downtown Revitalization

The vibrant city of Aiken has turned heads recently with some exciting news for its downtown area! The city has officially given the green light for a new mixed-use development project that promises to bring life back into a space that has been largely untouched for the past couple of decades. This isn’t just any project; it’s anticipated to exceed a whopping $10 million, and it’s set to be located near the beloved Aiken County Farmer’s Market.

A Fresh Start at the Jackson Petroleum Site

If you’ve walked by the old Jackson Petroleum site, you know it’s been a bit of an eyesore, sitting vacant for over ten long years. But fear not, because that is all about to change! The newly approved plans are a part of a broader initiative designed to revitalize the downtown area. For those of you counted among the long-time residents, you’ll be thrilled to know that this development aims to spark activity and create a community hub where businesses can thrive.

The Vision for the Future

Aiken’s visionary City Manager has shared insights on how the streetscape improvements along Williamsburg Street will beautifully complement this new project. The development aims to include inviting spaces for small businesses and modern apartments, giving the area a refreshing blend of commerce and community living. It’s all about making our downtown a place where people want to gather!

Balancing Needs with Growth

Next Steps in the Development Process

The city is now on a fast track, looking to advance negotiations with a potential buyer, CH2 Holdings, in the coming months. If construction goes as planned, we could see the first phases of this exciting development kicking off within the next three years! That means we are looking at a timeline that stretches to about 2027 for full completion. Just imagine how different our downtown could look in just a few years!

Other Exciting Developments on the Horizon

Aiken has been busy! Just a while back, the city approved a different mixed-use building over on Newberry Street. This particular project, located at 133 and 141 Newberry St. N.W., is expected to break ground this spring. With an estimated completion time of around 14 months, it’s another sign that Aiken is on the move, working to create a downtown brimming with activity.

Marketing Aiken’s Historical Properties

Colliers to take on the marketing of several beautiful downtown properties, including the historic Hotel Aiken and the charming Holley House/Motor Court. City staff will soon be evaluating offers from developers to ensure that the right fit is chosen for these important landmarks. They are aiming to involve a developer who truly respects Aiken’s rich history, ensuring our town’s heritage is preserved while moving forward.